You will not be disappointed when you make the choice to
upgrade to a new cooktop. Investing in a new cooktop is one of the easiest ways
to improve the appearance and functionality of your kitchen. Today’s cooktops
are available in a variety of styles and with several different features. Keep
these things in mind when you’re shopping for a new cooktop.

Type.Your cooking preferences will play a role in determining which type
of cooktop is best for you. There are three kinds of cooktops available.

Electric cooktops - These
cooktops run on electricity. The burners are sealed under ceramic glass, so the
surface of the cooktop is smooth. Many electric cooktops feature warming zones
and variable-size elements. These features allow you to cook with large pots
and pans but still heat the entire cooking utensil.

Gas cooktops - The
burners on gas cooktops typically rise on the surface of the cooktop like coils,
though some include gas-on-glass burners. Gas-on-glass burners combine the the
smooth surface of an electric cooktop with a natural gas heating method. Many
people prefer gas cooktops to other styles because the natural heat source
gives them highly accurate temperature control.

Induction cooktops -
Induction cooktops run on electricity, too, but use electromagnetic energy to
heat pots and pans. Thus, the burner itself does not get hot. You can learn
more about induction cooking at The Induction Site.

Maintenance. If you want to avoid cleaning up spills and splatters,
then an induction cooktop might be for you. Messes do not burn, simmer or
harden on the surface of an induction cooktop because the surface never gets
hot, so a spoonful of sauce that bubbles over the edge of a pot will take a second
to wipe up. Still, the smooth surface of an electric cooktop also makes it easy
to clean up after cooking. Only the coils on gas cooktops are difficult to
manage.

Size. Cooktops generally run 30 or 36 inches wide, although some new models
can be even larger. Four burners fit on to a 30-inch cooktop, while five or six
burners fit on the 36-inch models. Make sure you buy a cooktop that will fit in
the space you’ve allotted for it in your home.

Some individuals choose to install cooktops directly over
built-in ovens. This is possible if the oven measurements coincide with the
size of the cooktop. Most standard wall ovens are either 24, 27 or 30 inches
wide.

Aesthetics. This is another decision that will be predicted in part
by your personal tastes. Some ceramic electric cooktops do come in different
colors, so if you choose to buy an electric cooktop you will be able to match
it to your kitchen’s color scheme. Most other cooktops are available in white,
black or stainless steel.

Features. Some cooktops offer more advanced features than others.
You can find cooktops with built-in grills, griddles and downdraft venting.
Others have Pan Size Detection and Power Boil modes.

Remember to do your research on
specific cooktop brands and models once you’ve identified the type and size of
cooktop that you want. Read cooktop
reviews from consumers and consult consumer forums to have your specific
questions answered.